Page:A Discourse of Constancy in Two Books Chiefly containing Consolations Against Publick Evils.pdf/153

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132
A Diſcourſe
Book I.

you recover of a Disease: But then you must employ the Physitian, and make use of remedies. In like manner it is Fate, that the fluctuating sinking Ship of your Country, shall be preserv'd: It is then also Fate, that it shall be supported and defended. If you will arrive at the Haven, you must apply your hands to the Oare, and hoise the Sailes; not idlely gaping after, or expecting a Wind from above. On the other side if it is Fate that this Country of yours shall perish; by Fate also those things shall come to pass, which shall promote and further the ruine of it. The Commons shall be at variance with the Peers, and amongst themselves none shall know how to command, or to obey. Many shall be valiant in the tongue; all shall be sluggish in action: And to conclude amongst the Commanders themselves, there shall be found neither Prudence not Integrity. Velleius said well; the irresi-

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